Stay smooth through life's ups and downs

Turn Back the Clock

Turn Back the Clock

Anyone who's ever felt her stomach churn or her shoulder blades merge knows the bodily effects of stress aren't subtle. "Your skin pays a price, too, though in less obvious ways," says New York City dermatologist Francesca Fusco, MD. "Under stress, you tense your facial muscles more, which can cause worry and frown lines—just for starters." But there are ways to wipe the anxiety from your face.

The Doctor's Tip

The Doctor's Tip

Cortisol, a hormone released when you're stressed, contributes to collagen breakdown and wrinkling. An easy antidote? Once an hour—or just periodically throughout a stressful day—take a minute, close your eyes and breathe deeply, says Doris Day, MD, founder of MyClearSkin.com. "The relaxation of your body and facial muscles that comes from deep breathing can counteract the negative effects of cortisol."